New N.Y. Senator Puts President Obama On Hold

Gov. Paterson's Choice Opts To Finish Remarks Before Leaving Podium To Talk To New Commander-In-Chief

After months of public and private dithering and a very public dis of Caroline Kennedy, New York Gov. David Paterson named Hudson County Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand to replace Hillary Clinton in the U.S. Senate.

Gillibrand, a relatively unknown, is 42 and the mother of two. She was surrounded by political poobahs from around the state, including Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi, he himself a contender for the job, and Congressmen Gary Ackerman and Nita Lowey. She vowed to work hard to let New Yorkers get to know her.

"For many New Yorkers, this is the first time you've heard my name, and you don't know much about me," Gillibrand said. "Over the next two years you will get to know me, but much more importantly I will get to know you."

There were some high points -- President Barack Obama called in the middle of Gillibrand's speech.

Gillibrand finished her remarks before she went to the side of the stage to take the call.

"He said, 'I look forward to working with you,'" Gillibrand said.